Is Soot A Problem On White Painted Fireplaces?

Q: I've almost convinced my husband (after 9 years of living in this house) to let me paint the fireplace white. His only remaining issue is whether we will have a problem with soot making the white fireplace look dingy (we don't use it often). All of the white painted fireplaces I've seen look pristine. Has anyone had this problem, and did it make them regret having a white fireplace?

Sent by Lisa

Editor: Let Lisa know what you think about soot being a problem in the comments - thanks!